Cancer patients in three French regions to be reimbursed for physical activity classes
A two-year trial scheme will fund prescribed activity, including a final assessment
Patients who are undergoing or have previously undergone treatment for cancer can benefit from reimbursable exercise sessions
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Cancer patients in three French regions can now receive reimbursement to set levels from regional health authorities for attending physical activity sessions, if prescribed as part of their treatment.
Originally approved in the 2024 Social Security bill, a decree in May 2026 set up a two-year trial of the scheme for patients in Brittany, Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
To benefit, patients must be undergoing – or have previously undergone – treatment for cancer.
The decree covers all types of cancer although patients are generally expected to be classed as a long-term illness (ALD) sufferer, due to their diagnosis.
It comes amid a wider push from experts to see doctors prescribe physical activity more regularly to patients in France, with proponents believing that this could save hundreds of millions of euros per year in healthcare costs.
However, there are concerns that patients in more rural areas – far from accredited centres – will struggle to benefit from the trial.
Up to 24 sessions covered
Reimbursement under the scheme is paid by the Agence régionale Santé (ARS, regional health authorities), and not the state health insurer Assurance Maladie.
The reimbursement applies to ‘activité physique adaptée’ (adapted physical activity) sessions run by instructors qualified in adapted physical care, at facilities recognised by the ARS.
The reimbursement levels are as follows:
The total funding limit per person is €150.
Reimbursement is available if patients have received a prescription for adapted physical activity as part of their treatment.
The reimbursements cover a maximum of 12 sessions over a three-month period.
However, the sessions may be renewed once meaning patients can benefit from up to 24 sessions overall.
Sessions must start within three months of the prescription.
Classes can be held in groups, and the final assessment (one-hour long) cannot cost more than €45, meaning this element is fully covered by the scheme.
For more information speak to your GP or specialist.
